An apostolic administrator has been named for the Diocese of Mysore in India after its bishop, Bishop Kannikadass Antony William, was asked to go on leave by the Vatican.
Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras has taken over as apostolic administrator of the diocese after Bishop William reportedly went on “medical leave,” according to a report from Matters India.
A press release from the diocese said Archbishop Moras took charge starting January 7 during a ceremony at St. Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore, a major city in the southern Indian state of Karnataka.
Bishop William, meanwhile, is reported to be facing several allegations, including sexual assaults.
Archbishop Felix Machado, secretary general of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, said the Dicastery for Evangelization has decided that Bishop William takes a “period of absence from the ministry.”
Another communication from the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi said Archbishop Moras will act as the apostolic administrator with immediate effect.
At least 37 priests of the diocese earlier wrote to the Vatican to accuse Bishop William of misappropriation of funds and violation of the vow of celibacy.
A woman had also filed a suit against the bishop, stating that she was asked for sexual favors in exchange of a job.
“It was unfortunate that the bishop stuck to his position for so long despite several allegations,” said Father Faustine Lobo, spokesperson of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishops’ Council. – from a report on Matters India
